Mark Crapper is the owner and franchisor of Lounge Repair Guys, bringing more than 30 years of experience in franchising and business broking into the role. 

In episode 5 - Mark shares how he came to acquire the business, why the model stood out in a service-based industry, and what changed when he stepped from advising franchise systems to running one himself.

He breaks down the practical realities of owning and growing a franchise network from simplifying systems and automating admin, to choosing software that genuinely improves franchisee day-to-day operations. 

Mark also explains what he looks for in franchise partners, why people skills matter more than trade backgrounds, and how knowledge-sharing across the network helps franchisees solve problems faster.

0:00 Introduction

0:28 Taking over a business with strong franchise foundations

1:43 Combining trade background with franchising experience

2:39 The reality of owning the entire franchise network 

5:00 What makes the right franchisee beyond technical skill 

6:39 Finding and keeping rare talent in a specialist trade 

8:05  Organic growth through franchisee referrals

9:11 Mark experience across multiple franchise industries

10:19 Mark’s day-to-day life as a franchisor 

14:35 Always-on leadership and franchise support 

16:24 Why mobile repairs are central to the business model 

18:58 Territory expansion and growth plans for 2026 

20:42 Wrap up

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